File Photo – Lehtikuva.
The government has decided to protect the Saimaa ringed seals through fishing restrictions and ban of harmful fishing gear.
The regulation which enters force on Friday harmonises the fishing restricted areas, while net fishing will remain completely banned from April 15 to June 30.
The regulation also provides the size of fish traps and the structure of fyke net.
The regulation is aimed at promoting population growth of the critically endangered species.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry said it plans to monitor and evaluate the developments in the Saimaa ringed seal population.
According to Agriculture and Forestry Minister Kimmo Tiilikainen, the fishing municipalities have thankfully taken up the offer.
